Transition and Beyond...Now What? Guide for Parents of Youth with Disabilities.

This guide on transition services for Minnesota students with disabilities provides parents with information on student's rights and responsibilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that is available, how to obtain it, and how to improve the system to provide for transition needs that are not being met. Separate sections address: (1) the importance of starting early transition planning; (2) learning options; (3) transition requirements under IDEA, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Minnesota transition legislation; (4) questions that need to be addressed when transition planning; (5) self-advocacy and encouraging independence; (6) types of transition services, including vocational rehabilitation, residential services, training programs, financial assistance, health care, transportation, and recreation and leisure activities; (7) navigating the system, collaborating with agencies, and support networks; and (8) advocacy and serving on advisory committees. An appendix includes transition-related excerpts from the federal IDEA and from Minnesota state law. A list of Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers is provided along with additional transition resources. A description of the PACER Center and its programs is also included. (CR)